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Medroxyprogesterone

Drug Information

Medroxyprogesterone is a semisynthetic compound that differs in structure from the naturally occurring human hormone progesterone. It is added to estrogen replacement therapy to prevent uterine cancer caused by unopposed estrogen. It is also used to treat absence of menstrual bleeding (amenorrhea) and abnormal menstrual bleeding. Medroxyprogesterone is available alone and in a combination product. An injection product is used for contraception.

Replenish Depleted Nutrients

Reduce Side Effects

Support Medicine

Reduces Effectiveness

Potential Negative Interaction

In a group of 37 postmenopausal women treated with conjugated estrogens and medroxyprogesterone for 12 months, urinary zinc and magnesium loss was reduced in those women who began the study with signs of osteoporosis and elevated zinc and magnesium excretion.1 The clinical significance of this interaction remains unclear.

Explanation Required

In a one-year study of predominantly malnourished women in India and Thailand, medroxyprogesterone used for contraception was associated with increased blood levels of vitamin A and folic acid.2 The clinical meaning of these changes remains unclear.

In a group of 37 postmenopausal women treated with conjugated estrogens and medroxyprogesterone for 12 months, urinary zinc and magnesium loss was reduced in those women who began the study with signs of osteoporosis and elevated zinc and magnesium excretion.3 The clinical significance of this interaction remains unclear.

In a one-year study of predominantly malnourished women in India and Thailand, medroxyprogesterone used for contraception was associated with increased blood levels of vitamin A and folic acid.4 The clinical meaning of these changes remains unclear.

In a study of postmenopausal women, treatment with estrogen alone increased vitamin D blood levels, whereas estrogen plus medroxyprogesterone lowered vitamin D back to the level seen without estrogen use.5 This outcome might suggest that medroxyprogesterone interferes with beneficial effects estrogen may have on vitamin D metabolism and vitamin D supplementation would be called for. However, some research has not found the addition of vitamin D to estrogen/progestin combinations to be helpful.6 Therefore, while many doctors recommend 400 IU vitamin D to women taking estrogen/progestin combination hormone products, the efficacy of such supplementation has not been proven.

The Drug-Nutrient Interactions table may not include every possible interaction. Taking medicines with meals, on an empty stomach, or with alcohol may influence their effects. For details, refer to the manufacturers' package information as these are not covered in this table. If you take medications, always discuss the potential risks and benefits of adding a new supplement with your doctor or pharmacist.

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The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2016.

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